Exercise works. Healthy diets do too. These are tried-and-true weight-loss methods. However, in order to make them work for you, both need to be tailored to your unique needs. Don’t just dive head-first into any old weight-loss program. Experts agree the No. 1 reason people don’t lose weight is they just can’t stick with their chosen program long enough. Maybe it was too stringent or too laid-back, or perhaps, you just lost interest in it.

Keep in mind that there is no one “right” program for the masses. In other words, don’t start a low-carb diet that worked for your co-worker if you can’t see yourself skipping grains, veggies and fruit while you choke down meat, eggs and cheese all day long. Likewise, don’t sign up for a fitness boot camp if you’re more of a yoga lover.

Tailor your goals to your personality, likes and dislikes. And don’t expect something to work for you just because it worked for someone else. You’ll experience long-term success only if you can stick with your program, and you’ll only stick with it if you’re enjoying your time spent on it and seeing results.

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